|
LIMA, Oct. 14 (Xinhua) -- "Red zone", "Disaster" and "We won't go to the World Cup like that," are a few of the disappointed headlines the Peruvian media published on Wednesday after their national team's 4-3 home defeat against Chile in Lima on Tuesday night.
The majority of the criticism was directed at winger Christian Cueva who was sent off in the 23rd minute after a "childish" reaction. The player threw the ball at Chilean midfielder Jorge Valdivia.
Peru coach Ricardo Gareca did not escape the local media's wrath as well. They criticized the Argentinian for not making changes and for leaving the team with nine players for eight minutes while injured Andre Carrillo was treated and eventually replaced.
Chile took advantage of these eight minutes to score two goals making it 3-2 to Chile at half time.
"I have asked for forgiveness from my teammates because I put the group at a disadvantage. I don't know if the final result would have been different but, if I had stayed on the pitch, Chile would not have had so much space," said disgraced Cueva after the match.
"I know this is not the start we wanted or hoped for. Hopefully the fans don't lose faith in the team because it is still a long road to the World Cup," said coach Gareca.
Peru also previously lost 2-0 against Colombia in the first match of the World Cup Russia 2018 South America Qualifiers played in the Colombian city of Barranquilla.
The media criticized the national team's lack of maturity, clear tactical approach, uniformity in their ranks and physical rest.
The only player on the team to be commended by the media was Jefferson Farfan for his two goals and consistent good play throughout the match.
Peru are set to face Paraguay on home turf and will then visit Brazil in November for their next World Cup Qualifiers matches. It is very important for the South American side to come out on top in these matches if they are to stand a chance of qualifying for Russia.
Currently, the team is in eighth place in the World Cup South America leader board with zero points, three goals in favor and six goals against them.
